BLOOMINGTON — As autumn settles into Southern Indiana, the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market is rolling out new seasonal hours alongside one of its most anticipated fall events. Starting this Saturday, October 3, the Market will operate under its October schedule, welcoming visitors from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Showers Common (401 N. Morton St., next to City Hall).
Taste Over 15 Apple & Pear Varieties This Saturday
Have you ever wondered how a Winter Banana compares to an Arkansas Black, or if a Mutsu is sweeter than a Gold Rush? Local marketgoers will have the chance to find out during the annual Apple Tasting on Fernandez Plaza.
Running from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. (or while supplies last), the free event invites visitors to sample more than 15 locally grown apple and pear varieties side by side. From crisp, tart options perfect for baking to sweet, juicy varieties made for snacking, the lineup features familiar staples as well as rare heirloom fruit seldom found in standard grocery stores.
Featured Varieties
- Apples: Arkansas Black, Blushing Gold, Brastar, Crimson Crisp, Galarina, Gold Rush, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Mutsu, Querina, Rhode Island Greening, September Wonder, Stayman Winesap, Winecrisp, and Winter Banana.
- Pears: Asian Pear.
Specialty treats including Autumn Apple Cookies and Spiced Apple Kombucha will also be available, and many of the featured fruit varieties can be purchased directly from vendor booths. No registration is required to attend.
Live Music & Community Events
Saturday’s market features a double-header of live entertainment on the BCFM Circle Stage, alongside a chance to support a regional community challenge:
- 9:15 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. — Tom “Guitar Tom” Harlan: The local singer-songwriter brings his signature mix of Old Time, Country, Bluegrass, Blues, and Rock across two performance sets.
- 10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. — Bloomington Peace Choir: This inclusive community choir performs a set featuring American folk, South African freedom songs, and music centered on themes of peace.
- 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Mobile Blood Drive: In partnership with the Abbott and Big Ten We Give Blood Challenge, Indiana University is calling on Hoosiers to donate blood. The Versiti bloodmobile will be parked along Morton Street. Advance spots can be reserved by contacting Katelyn at kbconley@versiti.org.
What’s in Season at the Market
Beyond the apple tasting, vendor stalls will be packed with peak autumn produce, artisanal products, and value-added goods:
| Category | Available Items |
| Fresh Produce | Apples, pears, corn, cucumbers, eggplants, green beans, pumpkins, leafy greens, mushrooms, onions, peppers, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and winter squash. |
| Market Products | Breads, cakes & pastries, cheese & dairy, coffee, eggs, honey, kettle corn, kombucha tea, maple syrup, masala chai, meats (beef, chicken, lamb, pork, and salmon), prepared foods, and wool products. |
| Value-Added Goods | Dried herbs, herbal tea, hot sauces, jams, kimchi, pesto, pickles, salsas, and sauerkraut. |
Note: Vendor booth assignments are subject to change. Visitors seeking specific vendors can check in at the BCFM Information Booth.
Season Updates & Customer Survey
The Tuesday Market has officially wrapped up for the 2026 season. Market organizers thank all weekday shoppers for their support and look forward to welcoming everyone back for the 2027 season.
Have Your Say:
BCFM is inviting shoppers to complete its online Customer Survey to share feedback and suggestions for future markets. Participants will be entered into a drawing to win a free Market tote bag and a $5 Market gift certificate.
